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Red-necked False Blister Beetle

pollinator profile: Red-necked False Blister Beetle

Red-necked False Blister Beetle -Asclera ruficollis

Beetles were among one of the first order of insects to pollinate flowers and still play an important role in pollination today.

Quick Profile

Common

Red-necked False Blister Beetle

Family

Oedemeridae

Genus

Asclera

Range

Eastern North America, south to Georgia, west to Texas.

Season

March – June

Food

Larvae feed on decaying wood and other organic matter. Adults feed on pollen of spring flowers..

Hosts

N/A

Habitat

Woodlands and woodland edges.

Notes

Like true Blister Beetles, these beetles have toxic chemical defenses.

Impact

High beneficial value to native ecosystems; Beneficial pollinator.

Adult Red-necked False Blister Beetles -Asclera ruficollis are commonly found in woodland areas from March – May. They feed on pollen of spring wildflowers. The larvae feed on decaying wood, which helps in mineralization, releasing nutrients back into the soil.

Take care in handling blister beetles, these beetles have toxic chemical defenses (cantharidin), which is a blistering agent.

Please refrain from using insecticides in & around your garden or yard, as it will likely kill beneficial insects like these beetles!